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Abstract

This research examined leader-, soldier- and unit-level outcomes associated with the Army's first warfighters' forum, the Stryker Brigade Combat Team Warfighters' Forum (SWfF). Specifically, the study explored leaders' and soldiers' usage of and satisfaction with products and services offered by SWfF; the extent to which a SWfF-offered tactical training tool improved individuals' tactical knowledge; and whether a handbook derived from combat returnees' experiences improved unit-level tactical performance. Its broader purpose was to determine whether and how SWfF products are associated with knowledge acquisition and tactical proficiency, as well as to explore ways in which SWfF, and similar forums, could better support tactical units in the future. The results show that SWfF supports training and preparation for war, and that its methods can help the Army adapt to changing tactical landscapes. SWfF usage and satisfaction levels were high. Training tools provided by SWfF were statistically associated with gains in individual-level tactical knowledge and unit-level performance at the Combat Training Centers. The study suggests that warfighters' forums should continue to be developed, remain focused on providing information as quickly as possible, and continually monitor the views of their communities regarding the products and services they offer. In addition, the study offers two broader considerations for the Army training community. First, embed feedback reports into more training tools. Second, continue to develop and refine the technique demonstrated in this study for converting soldier and leader combat experience into information that can be easily used by units preparing for deployment.

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The research described in this report was sponsored by the United States Army and conducted by the RAND Arroyo Center

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